Chateau de Chambord

The royal Chateau de Chambord is one of the most recognizable chateaux in the world. It’s distinctive French Renaissance architecture blends traditional French medieval forms with classical Renaissance structures was constructed under the rule of Francoise Premiere, and was built to serve as his hunting lodge. It is speculated that the original design was the world of Domenico da Cortona, and some have said Leonardo da Vinci may also have been involved. Here, Delacroix uses the stately residence as a backdrop for a picaresque winter scene as men collect firewood to load onto a wagon as their horses stand post. The bright orange flames of the kindling fire compliment the blush pink sky and brown and umber colored trees that frame the image. This is surely one of Delacroix’s most popular chateau portrait, and evokes the majesty and splendor of the past.